Hermès Arceau Mythique Phoenix Coloriages Watch Overview
The Hermès Arceau Mythique Phoenix Coloriages Watch, presented at the 2018 SIHH watch fair, stands as one of the most captivating artistic creations in the Arceau collection. Inspired by the silk scarf motif of the same name, the watch features a hand-painted phoenix spreading its wings across a luminous mother-of-pearl dial. This intricate artistic approach showcases the Maison’s dedication to métiers d’art, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary refinement.
Each dial is crafted from a single plate of mother-of-pearl, selected for its natural iridescence. The phoenix illustration is micro-painted by skilled artisans using more than five shades of blue lacquer, each applied layer by layer with extreme precision. Variations in intensity and transparency create a dynamic effect, giving the feathers and surrounding decorative foliage a vivid sense of movement. Depending on the angle of light, the dial reveals different depths, allowing the phoenix to appear as if it is soaring above the dial rather than resting on a flat surface.
Design Philosophy and the Iconic Arceau Case
The Arceau case, originally designed in 1978 by Henri d’Origny, is instantly recognizable for its refined asymmetrical lugs, evoking the silhouette of a stirrup. In the Hermès Arceau Mythique Phoenix Coloriages Watch, this case becomes a perfect frame for the elaborate dial artwork. The elegant curvature of the lugs and slim bezel keeps the composition balanced, drawing the eye directly to the colorful phoenix. The proportions of the 41 mm white gold case also allow the dial’s artwork to be fully appreciated without appearing crowded.
The sapphire crystal offers clarity from all angles while protecting the delicate micro-painting beneath. The transparency and the high-polish finishing of the white gold case work in harmony to enhance the brightness of the mother-of-pearl.
Movement: Hermès H1837 Caliber
Inside the case beats the Hermès H1837 self-winding movement, manufactured in Switzerland. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement offers a power reserve of 50 hours. Its main plate and rotor are decorated with the iconic H pattern, a repeating motif that has become a hallmark of the brand’s watchmaking identity. While the watch is primarily celebrated for its artistic dial, the movement upholds the technical reliability expected from Hermès mechanical timepieces.
Limited Edition and Collector Appeal
The Hermès Arceau Mythique Phoenix Coloriages Watch is limited to only 12 pieces worldwide, enhancing its desirability among collectors of métiers d’art wristwatches. The combination of micro-painting, mother-of-pearl, and artisanal craftsmanship ensures that each piece is subtly unique. Its rarity, combined with the symbolic depiction of the phoenix, reinforces the watch’s narrative of rebirth, creativity, and artistic beauty.
Collectors who follow Hermès’ artistic watch series will recognize the significance of this release, as it reflects the Maison’s continuing commitment to hand-crafted dials. For those wanting to explore additional métiers d’art creations, Hermès provides background information on its techniques and heritage at the official website: Visit Hermès Official Website.
Hermès Arceau Mythique Phoenix Coloriages Watch Specifications
White gold case, 41 mm diameter, sapphire crystal, micro-painted mother-of-pearl dial, Hermès H1837 self-winding movement, 28 jewels, frequency 28,800 vph, 50-hour power reserve, blue or red alligator leather strap, white gold buckle, water-resistant to 30 meters.
